Researchers revealed that regular moderate to intense physical activity between ages 11 and 13 was associated with better mental health.
Physical activity was also associated with a reduction in hyperactivity and behavioral problems such as loss of temper, fighting with other children, lying and stealing in young people.
Researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh, Strathclyde, Bristol and Georgia, in the United States, explored data from the Children of the 90s study (also known as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children; ALSPAC). They analyzed the physical activity levels of 4,755 11-year-olds, measured using devices.
The devices recorded levels of moderate physical activity – typically defined as brisk walking or cycling – as well as vigorous activities that increase heart rate and breathing, such as aerobic dancing, jogging or swimming.
Young people and their parents reported their levels of depressive symptoms from age 11 to age 13. Participants’ parents and teachers were also asked about the youth’s general behavior and emotional difficulties.
When analyzing the impact of moderate to vigorous exercise on young people’s mental health and behavior, the team also considered factors such as age, gender and socioeconomic status.
They found that higher levels of moderate or intense physical activity had a small but detectable association with reductions in depressive symptoms and emotional difficulties.
Regular exercise had a small but detectable association with reduced behavioral problems, even after controlling for other possible influences, the study found.
The results suggest that regular moderate and intense physical activity may have a small protective influence on mental health in early adolescence, say the researchers.
Josie Booth, from the Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh, said: “This study adds to the growing evidence base on the importance of physical activity to all aspects of young people’s development – it can help them feel better. and must be prioritised.” The researchers say the study is the first to offer such a comprehensive approach to examining mental health and exercise in young people.
Professor John Reilly, from the University of Strathclyde, said: “While it may seem obvious that physical activity improves mental health, evidence for such a benefit in children and young people is sparse, so the study’s findings are important. The findings are also important. important because levels of moderate to vigorous intensity activity globally are very low in pre-teens globally – less than a third reach the 60 minutes a day recommended by the WHO and the UK Departments of Health.” (ANI)